Managing Director – Interior Design & Fit‑Out

About the role

We are seeking an experienced, commercially‑driven Managing Director to lead a well‑established interior design and fit‑out business based in Dubai. The role involves setting strategic direction, overseeing operations, and driving growth across commercial, luxury residential, hospitality and mixed‑use projects.

Key responsibilities

• Lead day‑to‑day operations, ensuring efficient delivery across all departments.
• Develop and execute strategic growth plans aligned with business objectives.
• Identify new business opportunities and expand existing client relationships to drive revenue.
• Build and maintain relationships with key clients, consultants, developers, architects and stakeholders across the UAE.
• Oversee successful delivery of fit‑out projects, ensuring they are on time, within budget and meet quality standards.
• Monitor financial performance, profitability, budgets and overall business performance.
• Implement operational improvements to maximise efficiency, productivity and quality.
• Lead, mentor and develop senior management and department heads, fostering a high‑performance culture.
• Support tendering, commercial negotiations and contract management.
• Ensure compliance with UAE regulations, health and safety requirements and corporate governance.
• Represent the business at industry events, networking functions and client meetings.
• Report directly to the Board/Owners on performance, growth opportunities and strategic initiatives.

Required profile

• Minimum 10 years’ experience in the UAE interior fit‑out, construction or interior design industry.
• Current senior leadership role (Director, Managing Director, Operations Director, Commercial Director or Business Development Director).
• Proven leadership in interior fit‑out, luxury fit‑out, commercial fit‑out or construction businesses.
• Demonstrated ability to manage large teams and multiple business functions.
• Strong understanding of project delivery, commercial management and operational processes.
• Extensive knowledge of the UAE construction and fit‑out market.
• Established network within the UAE property, construction and developer community (highly advantageous).
• Track record of growing revenue, improving profitability and scaling operations.
• Strong financial acumen with experience managing budgets, P&L and business performance.

Required skills